MILWAUKEE (AP) -- The Walmart Foundation is donating $1 million to Milwaukee-based Growing Power.

Growing Power is a nonprofit organization that promotes sustainable farming methods. It's run by Will Allen, a former professional basketball player.

Officials say the money will be used to support Growing Power's nationwide Regional Outreach Training Centers program. That provides training and skills development in community-based, sustainable agriculture to impact local food security.

Walmart Regional General Manager Mitch Cox says he hopes their donation can help Growing Power expand its local food initiatives program to support 20 communities in 15 states.

The companies' partnership started last year when Walmart started donating old produce to Growing Power for use in its composting operation.

Copyright 2011 The AP.